Navigation
Healing
Echinacea
Sun, 01/06/2008 - 22:39 — kitchenwitchBotanical Name:
E. purpurea, E. pallida, E. augustofolia
Zones:
4-9
Other Names:
Purple coneflower (E. purpurea), pale purple coneflower(E. pallida), Narrow-leaf purple coneflower(E. augustofolia), Kansas niggerhead, Sampson root, American coneflower, Black Sampson, Black Susan, Comb flower, Hedgehog, Indian Head, Kansas snakeroot, Red sunflower, Rock-up-hat, Scurvy root, Snakeroot
Echinacea is a native of North America and can be found in wild prairies and open woodlands. It also adapts well to the garden. There are nine species, three of which, E. purpurea, E.
Propagation:
E. purpurea is the easiest to grow.
Sow seeds in the fall so that they freeze over the winter, or store them in your freezer for a few weeks before planting. Scatter them over the surface, as light is necessary for germination. These plants prefer alkaline soils with good drainage. Weeds are a serious danger to young seedlings, because they grow very slowly and herbicides are just as dangerous to Echinacea as it is to the weeds, so you’re going to have to be diligent about weeding. Plant in full sun. It will tolerate shade, but it will result in an inferior harvest. Seedlings should be thinned to about a foot apart.
It may seem like a lot of work, but it’s worth it. Echinacea is being stripped from its wild populations and responsible herbalists should grow their own. Buying plants that have already been started will remove the hassle altogether, as adult plants are remarkably easy to maintain. This is an incredibly drought tolerant plant and natural rainfall is usually sufficient for its needs. Only water if the surface is dry. Echinacea usually does not need fertilizer and has very few disease problems. It will return year after year and if you don't deadhead it, it will drop its seeds and have babies too.
Echinacea attracts bees and butterflies and birds may come after your seeds in winter!
History and Folklore:
The name Echinacea comes from the Greek echinos, meaning hedgehog or sea urchin, which refers to the bristly scales of the dried seed head.
This is a North American native and was used extensively by the Native American populations for all manner of ailments. The Plains Nations used it more than any other herb.
Harvesting & Storage:
Harvest the tops in the third year, and the roots in the fourth year.
Thoroughly wash and dry the roots. Lay roots and tops out in the sun to dry.
Household Use:
The long-lasting cut flowers are beautiful in arrangements.
Magical Attributes:
Carrying Echinacea will provide inner strength during trying times. It is an appropriate flower for offerings, especially to place spirits and river God(dess)es. Including Echinacea in a spelli or charm will increase its effectiveness.
Healing Attributes:
Echinacea is a wonderful all-around healing tonic and it has been used as a cure for just about everything. It increases your T-cell count and stimulates your immune system. It is safe to use indefinately, but loses potency if you use it too long, so it's best to only use it during flu season or when you're not feeling well and take a break the rest of the time. Two weeks on and two weeks off seems to be the most common recommendation. It can be alternated with astragalus.
The entire plant is useful, but most of the power is in the root. To make a tincture, use the root or uproot the entire plant and chop it up fine and place it in a wide-mouthed jar. Cover it with 80+ proof alcohol and seal it. Store it in a cool place for several weeks, giving it a shake every few days.
Alternatively, you could make a tea out of the leaves. Or just chew them.
Although many immune combinations combine echinacea and goldenseal, it's not recommended.
People with asthma or autoimmune dysfunction including AIDS and Lupus should use Echinacea with caution. No studies have documented negative affects, but the action of the active constituents of Echinacea could theoretically complicate autoimmune problems.
Those with allergies to other members of the daisy family, ex. ragweed, should use Echinacea with caution.
Culinary Use:
Echinacea makes a pleasing tea.
Practical Kitchen Witchery:
Comfrey
Sun, 01/06/2008 - 20:48 — kitchenwitchBotanical Name:
Symphytum spp
Zones:
4-9
Other Names:
Knitbone, knitback, consound, blackwort, bruisewort, slippery root, boneset, yalluc, gum plant, consolida, ass's ear
Varieties
Wild or common comfrey Symphytum officinale L
Prickly or rough comfrey S. asperum Lepechin (Do not use this internally)
Propagation:
Comfrey prefers a cooler climate and is hardy down to -40 degrees, so it is a nice addition to northern herb gardens. It prefers full sun, but might need some shade if you live in a very hot place. Soil should be rich, but it's not picky. It appreciates a bit of fertilizer once in awhile.
It is most often propagated by root cuttings. Plant in spring, as soon as you can work the soil. 2-4 inches deep in rich soil. Give it about two feet of space to grow. Comfrey likes it moist, so water regularly if it does not rain.
Flowering stems should be removed in the first year, so that the plant's energy is focused on a sturdy root and leaf system. After that, you can let the plant flower. Growth continues while the plant is in flower.
History and Folklore:
Comfrey has been cultivated for healing since 400 BCE. It was used by such notable Greek physicians as Herodotus, Nicander, Galen and Dioscorides. It continued to be used throughout history and its use spread throughout Europe.
The name Symphytum comes from the Greek meaning "Grow together" + "plant". And comfrey comes from the Latin meaning to grow together.
Harvesting & Storage:
The more you harvest this plant, the more it will grow. It should be harvested in early May, just before it blooms, for the greatest potency. Collect the leaves as needed and spread out to dry.
Household Use:
Because comfrey roots dig so deep in search of nutrients, these nutrients are then stored in their leaves, which lack fiber and break down quickly. Thus, comfrey is an excellent compost plant and can be laid in the beds of other plants to act as fertilizer.
It is a great addition to compost in moderation. Make sure you balance it with firmer plant matter, or you'll get gooey compost.
Rot the leaves down in water for several weeks to produce a concentrated liquid fertilizer. Or make comfrey tea.
Boiling the root in water yields a sticky paste which you may or may not find some use for.
Magical Attributes:
Comfrey is associated with Saturn and Water and is sacred to Hecate.
Comfrey is used in protective magic for the traveler and to protect against theft. Try placing a comfrey leaf in your luggage to make sure it isn't lost or stolen. Use comfrey root in sachets for protection while traveling, and to keep your lover faithful while you are gone. Also use it in sachets to protect vehicles. Hang from your rearview mirror or hide it under a seat.
Wrap your money in a comfrey leaf for several days before going to a casino or poker game. It will help keep your bets coming back to you.
Comfrey flowers, especially blue ones, can be substituted in any spelli calling for borage.
Use comfrey in a bath after rituali to relax and cleanse you, especially for healing or love spells.
It can be burned in combination with mugwort to aid in divinationi and concentration and by itself or in combination for spells associated with letting to of unhealthy relationships.
Healing Attributes:
Wild comfrey contains allantoin, which is found in the milk of nursing mothers. It encourages cell reproduction and thus stimulates the healing of wounds. It also has a high mucilage content, which smooths the skin. This makes comfrey a valuable addition to salves and lotions and a soothing addition to baths.
Try adding comfrey to salves for burns, acne, bruising, abrasions and other topical complaints. It can also be used in poultices for breaks and strains and to reduce swelling from any cause.
Comfrey should not, however, be used for very deep or puncture wounds, because it can actually make the surface heal faster than the lower part of the wound, causing abscesses. Make sure a wound has been thoroughly cleaned before applying comfrey, so as not to seal dirt inside the wound.
The boiled roots yield a sticky paste which dries hard, and it has been used to set bandages. Simply spread it on the bandage, and then wrap the wound.
Taken internally, as a tea, the leaves are said to help speed the healing of broken bones and other internal injuries. The root is used for persistent, painful coughs as well as hemorrhage and ulcers.
However, one should be aware that comfrey can cause liver damage and is potentially carcinogenic. Interestingly, the toxic components are similar to those founds in acetaminophen, or Tylenol. But you wouldn't want to eat alot of that either. So keep your internal consumption of comfrey to a minimum and don't use it for long periods of time. Russian and prickly comfrey have the highest concentrations of toxic alkaloids, and the roots of any variety have higher concentrations than the leaves. These alkaloids are separate from the active healing constituents.
Comfrey should not be used internally or externally for longer than four to six consecutive weeks.
Pregnant or lactating women should not use comfrey.
No not use comfrey on deep or puncture wounds! The exterior of the wound where the medicine is applied will heal faster than the inside where the medicine can’t reach and you could end up with a pretty disgusting infection.
Culinary Use:
Although comfrey has been used for food in the past, recent evidence suggests that it contains carcinogenic compounds and can cause liver damage. Therefore, it is not advisable to use comfrey as a major food product. Russian and Prickly comfrey have the highest levels
of toxic alkaloids. In all varieties, the roots have higher concentrations than the leaves.
Comfrey does provide protein and a little bit of vitamin B12, which is rare in a plant source. The young leaves can be eaten like any leafy vegetable, but the mature leaves are unpleasant.
Comfrey roots, combined with dandelioni roots and chicory roots are said to make a good coffee substitute.
Practical Kitchen Witchery:
Coltsfooot
Sun, 01/06/2008 - 20:24 — kitchenwitchBotanical Name:
Tussilago farfara
Zones:
5-9
Other Names:
Coughwort, Hallfoot, Horsehoof, Fieldhove, Donnhove, Pas d'âne, Filius ante patrem, Tun Hoof, Ass's foot, Bull's foot, Butterbur, Farfara, Foal's foot, Horse Foot, Winter heliotrope, Clayweed, Cleats, Farfara, Fieldhove, Foalswort, Hallfoot, Huki-Tanpopo, K'Uan Tung, Oksurukotu, Son-before-father, To Wu, Tusilago, British tobacco
This is a plant in the Compositae family, to which dandelions and sunflowers also belong. The flower is similar in appearance to a dandelioni and forms a similar fluffy white seed head.
Propagation:
Coltsfoot is a perennial. It should be grown in a damp area, preferably in clay soil in a full sun position. Will tolerate some shade, but not much. Coltsfoot is invasive and travels underground by rhizomes, so cultivating it may be frowned upon in some neighborhoods. You might be better off to keep it in a pot to keep it from escaping. Try planting in a large pot sunk into the flower bed.
History and Folklore:
The name Farfarus is an ancient name for the Poplar tree, which has similar leaves.
Tussilago means "cough dispeller".
Theocritus's Idyll 2 mentions coltsfoot in the context of a spelli to bring back a wandering lover.
Harvesting & Storage:
The flowers should be collected when they bloom in early spring and the leaves after Midsummer.
Household Use:
Magical Attributes:
Coltsfoot is one of the first flowers to emerge in the springtime, often appearing as early as February. This and its bright sunny yellow flowers make it suitable for springtime rituals welcoming the return of the sun, such as Imbolc, Ostara and Beltain- depending on when they bloom that particular year! The long stems can be woven into wreaths.
Coltsfoot has been used as in love, tranquility and money spells and burned during divinationi rites. It is also burned in divinatory and healing incense.
Healing Attributes:
Both flowers and leaves make an excellent cough remedy in conjunction with horehound, licorice and marshmallow. You can make it into a syrup or tea. Steep 1-2 teaspoons of leaves or flowers in 1 cup boiling water. Drink no more than 3 cups daily. It can also be smoked by those with asthma, bronchitis and other lung problems, particularly those involving wet coughs.
Hot or cold coltsfoot tea compresses can be applied to swollen areas, and a cool such compress is soothing on the forehead or stomach when one has a fever.
A poultice of the leaves or flowers can be applied to eczema, sores, ulcers and insect bites.
The root is also useful for similar purposes, but it has higher levels of potentially toxic alkaloids and it is not recommended that it be used internally. Alli parts of coltsfoot contains these alkaloids, which can cause liver disease, but the leaves and flowers are considered safe for normally healthy adults to use in moderation. If you still aren't better after a few days, switch off with mullein for awhile.
Do not use while pregnant, trying to conceive or nursing. Do not give to children (that is, folks who are still growing).
Do not take more than 3 cups of coltsfoot tea per day, for three days. Do not take coltsfoot for more than 30 days out of the year.
Don't combine coltsfoot with blood pressure medication.
People who are allergic to ragweed are also likely to be allergic to coltsfoot, proceed with caution.
People with a history of alcohol abuse or liver disease should not take coltsfoot. Do not combine coltsfoot with other potentially liver damaging substances, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or comfrey.
If you ever begin to feel nausiated while using this herb, stop immediately. It is not a "normal" side affect, but a sign that the coltsfoot is hurting your liver.
Culinary Use:
Flowerbuds and young flowers can be added to salads or steamed as a vegetable. The flavor is similar to anise.
The leaves can also be added to salads, soups or steamed as a vegetable. The flavor is similar to licorice.
It is not recommended that you make a habit of eating coltsfoot because of its potential toxicity in high doses, but it is a nice, sunny addition to the Ostara or Imbolc feast.
Practical Kitchen Witchery:
Do not confuse common coltsfoot with Western coltsfoot Petastites frigidus, which has much higher levels of potentially toxic alkaloids. This plant may not be used to substitute for the other under any circumstance.
Coltsfoot, like Comfrey, has come under fire for containing pyrrolizidine alkaloids which can cause liver damage and there have even been suggestions that it be banned. That being said, Tylenol contains these same alkaloids. Therefore, I suggest you take the same precautions with coltsfoot (and comfrey) as you would with Tylenol. Don't overdose. Do not take tablets containing concentrated comfrey or coltsfoot. If you do use them internally, use them in their natural form or in tea and use the leaves, not the roots. If you begin to feel nauseated, stop using them. Don't use them in combination with other PA containing substances. Pick your poison, don't mix them. Don't use them for long periods of time. No more than a week. And don't use them more than three times a day. Some herbalists also suggest using milk thistle extract once you've completed a course of coltsfoot (or Tylenol/acetamenophen for that matter) as milk thistle is believed to help the liver heal after stress. And, of course, if you've ever had liver issues before, don't use coltsfoot, comfrey or Tylenol.
Burdock
Sun, 01/06/2008 - 19:37 — kitchenwitchBotanical Name:
Arctium lappa
Zones:
Most
Other Names:
Great Burdock, lappa, Fox’s Clote, Thorny Burr, Beggar’s Buttons, Cockle Buttons, Love Leaves, Philanthropium, Personata, Happy Major, Clot-Bur, Bardona, Gobo
A native of Eurasia, especially England and Scotland, an invasive weed in the United States, Burdock grows in moist waste places, ditches and roadsides.
Propagation:
Burdock grows wild everywhere and is generally considered a weed, so wild collection in public places is not usually a problem. (Never collect any plant from private property, state or national parks or wildlife preserves without permission.)
Not fussy about soil, but does best in light, well drained soil. Sow seeds one inch deep directly in soil in autumn or early spring 18 inches apart.
History and Folklore:
The name Arctium is derived from the Greek arctos, “bear”
Lappa, Greek “to seize”, Celtic llap, “Hand”
Dock refers to its large leaves.
Burr is from the Latin Burra which means “Wool” alluding to the fruit’s tendency to get caught in fur or wool of passing animals.
It is said that George de Mestral, the Swiss inventor of Velcro, got the idea after examining the fruit of a burdock plant that had stuck to his dog’s fur.
Harvesting & Storage:
Gather the roots from two year old plants in early spring and from one year old plants in mid autumn. It is best to gather your roots in the autumn of the first year. Leaves can be gathered and used as needed but are at their peak in early summer.
The flower appears in mid to late summer and the fruits ripen in early autumn. Collect them when they are dry in appearance (and stick to your clothing) and shake out the seeds. You can spread the seeds on paper to dry.
The roots must be sliced thin to dry properly and may become moldy. Lay roots and leaves flat to dry.
Household Use:
Burning this plant when green produces a large amount of carbonate of potash.
Bored children on a picnic may find burdock fruits to be fun to play with. They stick together just like Velcro and can be used like building blocks to make things.
Magical Attributes:
Burdock is associated with feminine energies, Venus and the element of water.
Burdock is used in rituals, amulets and spells to ward off negativity and for general protection. It can be used in potions, baths, incense and amulets. Also used for general healing. The root can be carved into a figure, dried and carried or worn as a protective amuleti.
Healing Attributes:
Burdock is considered one of Nature’s best blood purifiers.
Dried roots dug up in the first year are the best source, but fruits and leaves can also be used.
Take a decoction of 1 ounce herb to 1 ½ pint of water, boiled down to a pint, one teacupful per day as a blood purifier and for scurvy, boils and rheumatic afflictions.
Use the same decoction externally as a wash for ulcers and scaly skin disorders. A poultice of the leaves can be applied to bruises and swellings as well.
An infusioni of the leaves is good for indigestion, especially in people who suffer often.
A tincture, essential oil or extract of the seeds can be used externally as a skin smoother and for problems such as eczema, psoriasis, canker sores and hemorrhoids. Internally for kidney complaints or a general tonic. Large amounts induce sweating, which is believed by many herbalists to help rid the body of toxins.
Burdock can be added to shampoos or hair rinses for dandruff and itchy scalp.
In China, where it is called niupangzi, Burdock is used to treat impotence and infertility.
Some people experience dermatitis from topical exposure to burdock. Check for allergies by placing a bit of Burdock extract in a small area and wait 24 hours before using it to treat larger areas.
Culinary Use:
Cut immature flower stalks before flowers open. Scrub and peel them. Boil for a vegetable similar in flavor to asparagus or artichoke hearts. You can also use them raw in salads, but they are a bit bitter if not boiled first. These stalks may also be candied like Angelica stems.
The roots may be eaten like any root vegetable. This is called gobo in Japan. It is crispy and sweet and mild. Scrub the root and slice it thin. Simmer it for twenty minutes, until tender in butter or water.
There is a soft drink available in the United Kingdom known as “Dandelion and Burdock Beer”. Whether or not commercial varieties contain either herb is questionable (Like “Ginger Ale” in America) but health food stores may carry authentic varieties. If you’re not in Europe and would like to make your own, look here
Practical Kitchen Witchery:
When harvesting the roots, remember some basic rules. Plants store up nutrients in their roots to get them through the winter. A bienniel, therefore, will have the fattest, juiciest roots in the autumn of their first year. By the time new leaves form in the spring (so you can find your plant) some of those nutrients have been depleted. The plant will die in its second year, so it's not going to bother storing up nutrients in its roots. Of course, this puts you in a quandary if you want to collect seeds. You can figure it out.
Blackberry
Sun, 01/06/2008 - 19:01 — kitchenwitchBotanical Name:
Rubus fructicosus, Rubus canadensis
Zones:
3-8
There are many subspecies of this plant, but all work equally well.
Propagation:
Blackberries grow everywhere, and especially prefer dry, sandy soil in hedges or at the forest's edge. It can be cultivated by seed, or by softwood cuttings in the early summer or leaf bud cuttings in the late summer, or division in the early spring or autumn. It needs well-drained soil in a partially shaded position. This plant is an annual and will not produce fruit till the second year. Blackberries are susceptible to cane blight, crown gall, aphids and viral diseases. They are excellent additions to faerie and wildlife gardens as they provide good shelter. They attract birds including the brown thrasher, catbirds, cardinals, mockingbirds and vireos. They are also popular with swallowtail butterflies.
History and Folklore:
According to some English folklore, passing under the archway formed by a bramble branch will cure (or prevent) all manner of afflictions including hernia, ruptures, pimples and boils. This has also been used as a remedy for "downer" cows.
Celtic lore said that blackberries were fae fruit, and thus forbidden for people to eat, but blackberry wine is allowed.
In Greek mythology, the hero Belleraphon was thrown into brambles when he dared to ride the Pegasus to Olympus and was blinded by the thorns and wandered outcast and alone therafter.
In Christian lore, Christ's crown of thorns was made of brambles, and thus the berries were turned from red to black.
Another tale says that Lucifer landed in brambles when he was cast down from heaven and thus he cursed them so that they would be ugly (I think they're kind of pretty, actually). It is said that he hates them so much, he stomps on them on Michealmas Day and after that, it's unlucky to harvest them. Other folklore says this happens on Halloween.
Even so, blackberries were considered as protection against earthbound spirits and vampires. If planted near a home, a vampire couldn't enter because he would obsessively count the berries and forget what he was about.
Harvesting & Storage:
Berries should be harvested as soon as they ripen (they turn black). Overripe berries should be discarded and underripe berries should not be eaten. Berries can be used fresh or dried, or preserved in a jelly, jam, wine or any number of tasty treats.
Leaves should be harvested before or during flowering and laid to dry in the usual manner.
Roots can be dug in the summer. After the berries have appeared in the second year is the best time to do this. They should be dried quickly, in an oven or under a hot sun.
Young shoots can be harvested in the spring for use in salads.
Blackberry plant parts for use in protective magic should be gathered during the waning moon.
Household Use:
A permanent black dye can be made using blackberry leaves and lye. The young shoots produce light gray using alum mordant. The root produces orange dye. The canes produce reddish tan and the berries bluish gray.
Leaves can be added to a bath tea to freshen the skin in the winter.
Dried berries can be added to potpourri.
Magical Attributes:
Blackberry is feminine is in nature and associated with Aries, the planet Venus and the water element. It is strongly associated with the Goddess Brigid, healing, prosperity, protection and first harvest festivals.
Blackberry vines can be woven into protective wreaths and the leaves can also be added to mojo bags and other preparations for general household protection and prosperity.
Drinking a tea from blackberry leaf is said to aid in spells to increase money and to work as a mild aphrodisiac.
In dream symbology, blackberries represent loss, sorrow and remorse. If you are pricked in your dream, the your enemies will conspire with your friends against you. If they draw blood, then you will get the raw end of a deal.
Blackberries are traditionally baked into pies to celebrate the First Harvest.
A healing spelli that invokes Brigid makes use of blackberry leaves. Dip nine leaves in a natural water source and lay them on a burn or a red inflamed area. Say to each leaf as you lay them on the wound- "Three ladies came from the East, One with fire and two with frost, Out with fire, in with frost!"
Healing Attributes:
Blackberry is a cooling herb.
Fresh leaves, bruised can be applied to give some relief to burns, especially from steam or boiling water and is also useful for hemorrhoids, skin ulcers, and eczema. A decoction used as a mouth rinse is also good for sore throats.
The fruit is especially good for the liver and kidneys, while the leaf acts on the stomach and intestines.
The fruit should be eaten, either fresh, or in jam or wine, by those having trouble with stones or diarrhea. A decoction of the root bark or an infusioni of the leaves may also be used. For stones, simmer 1 tbsp of root per cup of water for 20 minutes. Add enough water to return it to one cup, and drink one cup per day, spaced out throughout the day in 1/4 cup intervals.
In the summer when the berries are ripe, make this syrup to help ease winter colds and flu- cover fresh berries with malt vinegar and let them stand for three days. Mash and strain. Add one pound of sugar for each pint of juice that results and bring it all to a boil. Allow it to boil for five minutes, then let cool and seal. Add a teaspoon of this syrup to a cup of water to help keep your feverish little ones hydrated.
Culinary Use:
Blackberries are tasty right off the bush or sprinkled over shortbread and smothered in cream, or added to a bowl of cereal. They also make great jams and wines.
The dried leaves may be added to herbal tea blends.
Practical Kitchen Witchery:
There are probably some blackberry canes in your back yard right now.
Bay Laurel
Sat, 01/05/2008 - 21:03 — DawnBlackBotanical Name:
Laurus nobilis
Zones:
Southern
Bay is an evergreen shrub (often referred to as a small tree) native to Asia Minor and areas around the Mediterranean.
Propagation:
Bay laurel requires mild climates and will only grow well outside year round in zones 8-10. It does make an attractive container plant, however, and doesn't get too big. Folklore says that growing bay laurel as a houseplant will protect your home from lightening strikes and disease. It must have 4 hours of direct sunlight a day and be kept relatively cool. The soil should be rich and well-drained and allowed to dry out between watering, but should receive a little extra water in the springtime. Bugs don't seem to bother this plant too much. It makes an excellent hedge and responds well to pruning.
The plant can be propagated easily from cuttings.
History and Folklore:
The world laurel comes from the Celtic lawr, meaning "verdant" and nobilis from the latin meaning "noble" or of high rank.
The Greek word for Bay is dhafni, after the nymph Daphne who was changed into a bay laurel tree by Gaea (or her father Peneus, or herself, depending on who's telling the story) to protect her from the unwanted advances of Apollo. The tree is sacred to Apollo and it is said that the Oracle at Delphi chewed the leaves and inhaled the smoke when seeking visions. It is also associated with honor and glory and kings, heroes, triumphant athletes, poets and other great men and women were crowned with it to signify their greatness in both ancient Greece and Rome. Garlands of bay laurel were traditionally bestowed upon the winners of the Pythian games in Greece and later the Olympic games (prior to the change, olive leaves were used).
Today, grand prix winners are given wreathes of laurel. The world laureate as in poet laureate and baccalaureate (lit "laurel berry") are additional reminders of the high status of this tree.
Laurel wreaths were worn for their protective properties. They were believed to protect against the anger of sky Gods and the Emperor Tiberius always wore laurel during thunderstorms to prevent his being struck by lightening. Doctors also wore laurel as it was considered helpful in curing nearly everything.
Harvesting & Storage:
Harvest the leaves as needed. This is one herb that's better dried than fresh, as the fresh leaves are much more bitter. They may be pressed to dry, like you would press flowers. Properly dried leaves are bright olive green. Store them in darkness in an airtight container. Throw them out after two years, or when they turn brown, whichever comes first.
Household Use:
Bay leaf is very aromatic and holds it shape and fragrance well when dried making it a nice addition to many potpourris, wreaths and other herbal crafts. It blends well in aromatherapy combinations with bergamot, cederwood, lemon, rosemary, and patchouli.
It can also be added to sachets to keep moths out of your closets. A bay leaf dropped in a bag of flour may also help keep bugs out of that.
It is also a useful addition to shampoos and is recommended for hair loss, dandruff and greasy hair.
Magical Attributes:
Laurel is sacred to Apollo and should decorate any altar to him. Its spicy fragrance, and association with the sun makes it appropriate for any festival of the sun. Bay laurel is also associated with Aesclepius, Ceres, Zeus, Fides, Hermes and Cerridwen. It is considered masculine, and is ruled by Leo, the Sun and the element of Fire.
Bay leaves can be used to sprinkle water during any rituali, a branch of many leaves may be used in a group situation. Dip the branch in the water and wave it toward the group, spraying them with water three times.
Bay leaves may be added to any spelli or potion designed to enhance psychic ability and is a great addition to a psychic dream pillow.
Laurel wreaths may be worn by healers during healing ceremonies and while treating the sick in order to increase the positive healing energy and protect against negative energy that may be hanging around the sick room. Bay leaf can also be burned in the sick room after the illness has passed to purify it and drive out any residual sickness vibes.
It is exceptionally useful as a smudge during banishing and exorcism rites, especially those involving poltergeists. Mixed with sandlewood, it is useful for breaking curses.
When you finally get rid of that roommate, ex-spouse or family member who you thought would never move, smudge the house with bay to ensure they won't return. Even if you aren't really happy about them going, if you know it's best for everyone, cleanse the home of their presence for closure.
Bay laurel may be carried to protect against any number of misfortunes and to bring luck in athletic competitions.
To ensure that you will see your lover again, and neither of you will be tempted to infidelity, go together to a bay laurel tree and pluck a leaf, break it in half and each keep one half.
Write a wish on a dried bay leaf and then burn it and your wish will come true.
Healing Attributes:
Bay laurel has verified bactericidal and fungicidal properties.
The essential oil can be added to massage oils for arthritis and muscle aches and pains. It can also be added to salves for bruises, itching and other mild skin irritations.
A poultice of the leaves and berries, simmered till soft, can be placed on the chest to relieve head and chest colds.
A tea made of the leaves and/or berries aids in digestion, helps to rid the body of impurities and makes a good general health tonic. It is particularly helpful to women who are having trouble urinating after childbirth. Pregnant women, however, should not use bay laurel beyond the little bit we might use in cooking.
Teai can also be used to calm nerves.
Adding bay laurel to your bath tea aids with vaginal infections, perineal healing after childbirth and urinary tract infections.
Never never ever use the essential oil internally.
Culinary Use:
Bay leaf is a popular culinary herb. It is slightly bitter and strongly aromatic. It shouldn't be eaten whole, however, as the leaf has sharp edges that can cut your mouth. Instead, add it to soups, stews, roasts, sauces and other dishes that simmer for awhile and remove it just before serving or add to a bouquet garni. This allows the flavor to infuse into to the dish. For a stronger flavor, the leaf can be crushed and added to dishes. It also makes a good pickling spice.
Laurel berries have a robust flavor all their own and can be used to flavor meats and sauces.
While most herbs should be added at the end of cooking for the best effect, bay imparts the best flavor when simmered for a long time. The leave should be removed before serving.
Practical Kitchen Witchery:
There are many plants that are called laurel or bay that are not. The California bay tree Umbellularia californica is not the same plant, but has a similar flavor and can be used just like common bay laurel in many cases. It is also called California laurel, Oregon myrtle or pepperwood. Indian bay leaf Cinnamomum tejpata looks quite similar, but tastes more like cinnamon. West Indian Bay leaf is allspice.
Some similarly named plants are poisonous and should not be used under any circumstances. Mountain laurel, Kalmia latifolia, is one of these.
Always check the botanical name of any plant you use and never use one you aren't absolutely sure isn't exactly what you want.
Amaranth
Sat, 01/05/2008 - 20:54 — kitchenwitchBotanical Name:
Amaranthus spp
Zones:
most
Other Names:
amaranth, cock's comb, kiwicha, lamb's quarters, love lies bleeding, pigweed
Amaranth is a bushy plant that grows two to seven feet tall. Although the seeds are used like grain, they are not related to cereal grains which are members of the grass family.
Propagation:
Amaranth is very easy to grow. It is an annual, so it will have to be replanted, or allowed to self-seed each year. It readily reseeds, however, and unless you're careful you won't have much choice in the matter. It doesn't transplant well and grows best outdoors. It tolerates a variety of soil types, though fertile, well-drained soil is best. It is resistant to heat and drought and has no major disease problems, although it is susceptible to fungus if the soil is kept too moist. It has the ability to bounce back from a wilt when conditions improve.
Just throw down some seeds in the spring, mid-May to early June is best. It works well in crop rotation with corn or soybeans. There are no herbicides listed as safe to use with amaranth, which is just as well, because I like to go organic. At any rate, the wide leaves shade the ground so that few weeds stand a chance in all that shade once the plant gets going.
History and Folklore:
The name Amaranth comes from the word amaranton, which means "unwithering", because the flowers maintain their shape and color when dried.
Amaranth was a staple in the diets of pre-Columbian Aztecs, who believed it had supernatural powers and incorporated it into their religious ceremonies. Before the Spanish conquest in 1519, amaranth was associated with human sacrifice and the Aztec women made a mixture of ground amaranth seed, honey or human blood then shaped this mixture into idols that were eaten ceremoniously. This practice appalled the conquistadors who reasoned that eliminating the amaranth would also eliminate the sacrifices. The grain was forbidden by the Spanish, and consequently fell into obscurity for hundreds of years.
In the Cusco area the flowers are used to treat toothache and fevers and as a food colorant for maize and quinoa. During the carnival festival women dancers often use the red amaranth flower as rouge, painting their cheeks, then dancing while carrying bundles of amaranth on their backs as they would a baby.
In India amaranth is known as "rajeera" (the King's grain) and is popped then used in confections called "laddoos," which are similar to Mexican "alegria."
In Ecuador, the flowers are boiled then the colored boiling water is added to "aquardeinte" rum to create a drink that "purifies the blood," and is also reputed to help regulate the menstrual cycle.
Harvesting & Storage:
You can harvest the seeds as late as the day after the first frost. If the leaves starti to fall off, that's an indication that it's about ready. You can then cover the seed heads with a brown paper bag and shake the seeds loose. Pick off the leaves and use as needed. They are best when they are young and fresh and are usually in good shape late spring through early autumn.
Store away from light in a cool, dry place. Light, heat and moisture will damage the oils in the seeds and cause them to go rancid.
Flower heads can be cut when they bloom and hung upside down to dry.
Household Use:
Amaranth flowers dry well and look good in floral arrangements.
The flowers of red amaranth can be dried, powdered and used as a cosmetic to brighten lips and cheeks.
Magical Attributes:
Amaranth is sacred to the goddess Artemis. It is also sacred to Huitzilopochtli, an Aztec Sun God.
A crown of amaranth flowers worn on the head speeds healing.
To make sure that you are never struck by a bullet, pull up a whole amaranth plant (including roots) preferably on a Friday during the Full Moon. Leave an offering to the plant and then fold it, roots and all, in a piece of white cloth. Wear this against your breast and you'll be 'bullet-proof.' I imagine you'd have to use one of the smaller, ornamental varieties for this.
The dried amaranth flowers have been used to call forth the dead, I don't know the process for this.
Amaranth is used in spells to repair a broken heart.
It is also associated with immortality, and is used to decorate images of gods and goddesses as well as in Pagan funeral ceremonies.
Woven into a wreath, it is said to render the wearer invisible.
Healing Attributes:
Amaranth is a highly-nutritive tonic herb. It should always be cooked before being eaten and it should be grown in a low-nitrogen situation.
Amaranth seeds can be used as a grain substitute for someone who is sensitive to grains or looking for a low-carb option. Because it is highly digestable, it is also good for people recovering from an illness or breaking a fast. It must be mixed with other flours for making yeast breads because it contains no gluten. See more information under "culinary use".
Amaranth seeds have also demonstrated effectiveness in helping to lower cholesterol.
An extract of the flowers can be used externally for sores and ulcers and as a mouth wash for sores in the mouth.
Culinary Use:
Amaranth seeds are packed with protein and fiber though they seem to also contain some chemical that inhibits their absorption. Whatever this chemical is, it is more of a problem with raw seeds than cooked seeds. They can be processed in a variety of ways, including popped, ground into flour, flaked and others. The whole seeds can be added to baked goods for texture, cooked into a cereal, added to soups and stews as a thickening agent and a bit of texture, or roasted and eaten like sunflower seeds.
To cook amaranth seeds as a cereal or side dish, like rice or couscous, combine equal parts water and apple juice or broth (depending on whether you want your amaranth to be sweet or not) to get 2 � cups liquid. Place in a sauce pan with 1 cup amaranth seeds and bring to a gentle boil. Cook about 18-20 minutes until the liquid is dissolved and the seeds are tender. Experiment with different herbs for different flavors for a side dish. For breakfast cereal, add raisins and honey while cooking and serve with milk.
Amaranth flour can be used in making pastas, flatbreads and pancakes. Because it contains no gluten, it must be mixed with other flours for yeast breads, but you can use up to 50% amaranth flour with no negative affects on the performance of the base flour.
In Mexico, popped amaranth is blended with molasses or honey and formed into a bar, much like a granola bar, or Rice Krispy treat. This treat is called "alegria" (happiness). The roasted and milled seed is also used to make a traditional drink called "atole."
Amaranth leaves can be cooked and eaten like spinach. They are very high in iron and vitamin C and also contain calcium, protein, phosphorus, potassium, thiamin, riboflavin and niacin. Just steam them lightly. They are especially good sprinkled with sesame seeds or pine nuts.
In Africa and the Carribean, amaranth is a common pot herb and the leaves are picked off as needed.
Practical Kitchen Witchery:
Amaranth grows as a weed in many gardens. Look for a thick, smooth red-veined stem, arrow-shaped leaves and a bushy flower head. Weed varieties produce green flowers. Cook them up like spinach.
Do not eat amaranth raw in large amounts and do not feed raw amaranth to your pet rats, birds, etc.
Do not eat Amaranth that has been grown in manure and chemically fertilized areas as it stores the nitrates these fertilizers contain in its leaves. Nitrates have been linked to stomach cancer.
Allspice
Sat, 01/05/2008 - 14:51 — DawnBlackBotanical Name:
Pimenta dioica, Pimento officinalis, or Eugenia Pimenta
Zones:
10-11
Allspice comes from a tree in the myrtle family that grows in Central and South America.
Propagation:
You can really only grow allspice in tropical areas.
Trees must be planted at least 30 feet apart (10 meters) to allow for a full canopy spread. There must be male and female tress for cross-pollination. Only female trees set fruit.
The tree begins to fruit at about three years of age. Flowers appear in June, July and August and the berries appear shortly thereafter.
Once the berries have attained their full size, but are still unripe and green, they are harvested by breaking off small branches bearing clumps of berries. It is important to harvest them while they are still green because once they ripen, much of their aroma evaporates. They are then dried in the sun or in ovens until they turn a dark reddish-brown.
The leaves of the male plant can also be harvested and used, but the berries have a stronger concentration of essential oil and are thus much more fragrant.
Don't despair if you don't live in a tropical area. Allspice can be purchased at most major grocery stores and an even greater variety of preparations can be purchased online.
History and Folklore:
Allspice was used by the Mayans as an embalming agent and by other native South Americans to flavor chocolate. The Arawaks used allspice to help cure and preserve meats (occasionally the meat was their fallen enemies). In the Arawak tongue, meat cured this way was known as boucans. Later settlers who cured meat this way became known as buccaneers, which eventually came to be the word 'buccaneers'.
Allspice was one of the many things discovered by Spanish explorers when they landed in the West Indies. They thought it looked like black peppercorns, so they named it Jamaican Pepper or Pimento, from the Spanish word "Pimenta" which means pepper.
The English named it "Allspice" because it is said to have the aroma of many spices including cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, pepper and juniper berries. There were several attempts to grow allspice in Europe, but the transplanted trees never produced much fruit.
Harvesting & Storage:
Household Use:
Allspice is very fragrant and can be used for perfuming soaps. It is frequently used in men's toiletries.
Magical Attributes:
Allspice is associated with the element of fire and the planet Mars. It is masculine in nature, very manly. Use to honor very verile and powerful male archetypes.
Allspice is very uplifting and increases energy and determination making it useful in many different types of spells, especially healing spells.
The dried berries, oil, or allspice incense can be burned to aid in spells for attracting money and/or luck. The berries can also be added to sachets for attracting the same.
Allspice is useful in all healing mixtures.
Healing Attributes:
Allspice can be used in a paste to soothe toothache (much like cloves) and a mouthwash to freshen breath. It stimulates the gastro-intestinal tract, so it can be used in teas to encourage the appetite or aid in digestion. Allspice can also be added to tonics and purgatives. Two or three drops of the essential oil with some sugar has been used to cure flatulence.
Allspice is also listed as a rubefacient, which means that it increases circulation to the skin, so it can be used in treating acne and cold limbs. Allspice contains tannins, which provide a mild anesthetic making it useful for the treatment of arthritis and sore muscles either in a soak or a poultice.
Culinary Use:
The ground, dried berry is very aromatic and has a robust, peppery taste. It is a popular component of jerk seasoning in Caribbean cooking. It is also very popular in English cooking and is often added to stews and sauces and used in pickling vegetables. Allspice can be used as a substitute for cinnamon, nutmeg or cloves.
In the countries where allspice originates, the leaves are also used in cooking or smoking meat and are known as ‘west Indian bay leaf’, though it doesn’t taste much like the other sort of bay leaf. The essential oil (West Indian Bay Oil) is also used in sausages.
Practical Kitchen Witchery:
Thyme
Sat, 12/29/2007 - 10:24 — kitchenwitchBotanical Name:
Thymus spp
Zones:
4-9
Thyme is a member of the mint family. It is generally a low growing perennial, winter hardy to zone five.
Propagation:
Thyme prefers full sun to part shade and loose, fast draining soil, preferably sandy. The roots should never be allowed to stay wet. Thyme is winter hardy, but a light mulch will protect it when the ground freezes. It does not need fertilizers. Thyme does best if it is pruned in the spring or summer after its first year.
With the exception of Common Thyme, which is light germinated, so seeds should be scattered on the surface, the seeds are small and slow to germinate, and many varieties are sterile cultivars, so it is best to propagate by division or cuttings, or buy a plant at your local nursery.
Thyme and lavender grow well together, perhaps mainly because they enjoy the same conditions.
Grow thyme amongst cabbages to protect them from cabbage worms, flies, beetles and aphids.
History and Folklore:
The word Thyme comes from the Greek meaning to "fumigate". This indicates that it was used as a smudgingi herb. The Greeks thought very highly of Thyme. It was mixed in drinks to enhance intoxicating effects and induce bravery and warriors were massaged with thyme oil to ensure their courage. Women wore thyme in their hair to enhance their attractiveness. The phrase "to smell of thyme" meant that one was stylish, well groomed, poised, and otherwise attractive.
Thyme is a Mediterranean native spread throughout Europe by the Romans. Their soldiers added it to their bathwater to increase bravery, strength and vigor.
It enjoyed a long association with bravery. In Medieval England, ladies embroidered sprigs of thyme into their knights' scarves to increase their bravery. In Scotland, highlanders brewed tea to increase courage and keep away nightmares.
Thyme was used as early as 3000 BCE by Sumerians as an antiseptic. It does indeed have impressic antiseptic qualities.
It was used as an embalming herb in ancient Egypt and was burned in other places as offerings to celebrate Rites of Passing. It was placed in coffins throughout Europe to ensure passage into the next world.
Harvesting & Storage:
Leaves can be harvested as needed throughout the year. Give the plant a year to get established before doing any heavy harvesting. The best flavor is right before flowering.
Thyme dries very well. It should be dried as any other herb on the stem and the leaves stripped off later.
Household Use:
The tiny flowers will attract bees to your garden. Honey made from these flowers is highly prized.
Sachets of thyme hung in your closet or folded in with your stored clothes will keep moths out, and smells nicer than mothballs.
Oil of thyme can be used as a household cleaning agent as it is good germ killer and drives away pests. Just put a few drops in a spray bottle with 4 parts water to 1 part vinegar.
A strong infusioni of thyme makes a great hair rinse for dark hair and repels head lice. You can add rosemary as well if you have problems with dandruff.
Magical Attributes:
Thyme is feminine in nature and associated with the element of water and the planet Venus. Thyme is also associated with Freya, Aphrodite and Ares.
Thyme can be used in spells to increase strength and courage.
When working hard to achieve a goal that seems unachievable, thyme can be used to keep a positive attitude.
Smudgei your home with thyme to dispel melancholy, hopelessness and other mellow but negative vibrations, especially after a family tragedy or during a long sickness.
Place thyme beneath your pillow for a restful sleep and happy dreams and to prevent nightmares.
Faeries love thyme. Its addition to your garden will attract them and it can be used in spells to communicate with faeries.
Thyme is excellent in rituali baths and smudgingi for early spring festivals when we seek to leave the old behind and begin anew.
Healing Attributes:
The tiny flowers will attract bees to your garden. Honey made from these flowers is highly prized.
Sachets of thyme hung in your closet or folded in with your stored clothes will keep moths out, and smells nicer than mothballs.
Oil of thyme can be used as a household cleaning agent as it is good germ killer and drives away pests. Just put a few drops in a spray bottle with 4 parts water to 1 part vinegar.
A strong infusioni of thyme makes a great hair rinse for dark hair and repels head lice. You can add rosemary as well, if you have problems with dandruff.
Medical Use
Thyme has been used as a cough remedy and digestive aid as well as a treatment for internal parasites.
The active constituent, Thymol, has strong antibacterial and antifungal properties and a strong scent that helps loosen phlegm and sooths the respiratory system. It is used in many over the counter cold remedies.
It is also used for athlete's foot and hemorrhoids.
For internal use, steep two teaspoons of fresh herb or one teaspoon of dried herb in one cup of boiling water. Drink no more than twice a day, in the morning and evening, to relieve lung problems and dispel parasites.
A stronger tea can be used as a mouthwash to treat sore gums, as a foot soak to get rid of athlete's foot, a body or hair rinse for lice or dip a rag in it and use it as a compress for skin inflammations.
Thyme can also be added to massage oils and bath oils for the treatment of rheumatism and general aches and pains. These oils can also be used for colds and lung complaints.
Use oil of thyme by dropping into an infuser, or into a pan of boiling water and inhaling the fumes up to four times daily to relieve congestion. Never take essential oils internally.
Culinary Use:
Thyme has a long association with cooking and is part of French Bouquet Garni and Herbes de Provence. The most common type of thyme used in cooking is Common Thyme or English Thyme, but there are many varieties that can be used, all bring their own personality to the table.
It adds a marvelous rich flavor to meat dishes and stews. Adds flavor to veggies too and is especially good on potatoes. Actually, you can put thyme on just about anything. Try it on grilled cheese sandwiches or in scrambled eggs. It combines well with parsley, sage and rosemary, as the song says.
Thyme is a tough herb, and should be added early in cooking as the flavor is slowly released by heat.
The flowers are edible as well as the leaves, and make a lovely garnish.
The woody stems can be laid over charcoal when barbequing to flavor the smoke.
Practical Kitchen Witchery:
Begin new projects with a hearty meal seasoned with thyme and herbed wine.
Serve meals heavily laced with thyme when your family is facing a difficult struggle to attain a goal to ensure that you all remain lighthearted and don't give up hope!
Plant many varieties of thyme inside and outside your home. Plant the small creeping varieties between stepping stones and the trailing varieties in hanging pots near heavy traffic areas. The scent will remind you and anyone else who spends time in your home that you are strong and capable and fill your home with hope and good cheer. Whenever you come home feeling drained and ready to give up, just breathe deeply and be refreshed.
Maple-Pecan Yams & Apples
Wed, 12/05/2007 - 12:14 — kitchenwitchIngredients:
A handful of pecans
1 cup of apple cider
1 apple, washed, cored, cubed
2 Yams or sweet potatoes, washed, cubed
1/2 cup maple syrup
1 tbsp butter
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place the cubed apple and yams in a baking dish. Pour cider over all and stir to coat.
Cut the butter into tiny squares and sprinkle over the top.
Notes:
This is a fabulous recipe for your Feast of the Dead at Samhain as the yams celebrate the chthonic deities while the apples are the food of immortality.
This is also a great thanksgiving meal for harvest celebrations and its energies help to draw prosperity to the hearth.
Quick Witch Tips:
All content copyright Dawn Black unless otherwise stated. No content may be distributed electronically or in print without express permission from the author.
**** Add to Technorati Favorites **** Stumble It! **** Dig This ****
Syndicate